AC Milan vs Real Betis Predictions

AC Milan need to quickly bounce back from their derby disappointment at the weekend, with a Europa League clash with Real Betis on Thursday. The Rossoneri have made a great start in Europe, but their weekend loss to rivals Inter has left them struggling in Serie A. Their main target this season was to secure a spot in the Champions League, and even at this early stage it seems like the Rossoneri could need the Europa League in order to do that. This competition could offer a back-door into the top tournament, while bringing some silverware back to San Siro.

The Rossoneri have work to do on their side, but it can’t be denied that they’ve made progress. Their summer signings are starting to show their worth, and that famous recruitment drive in the summer of 2017 has already strengthened their side. They’re starting to show hints of what they can do, and so far they’ve been really impressive in Europe. They top the pile after a strong start in the Europa League, and they can move five points clear at the top of Group F with a win over Real Betis on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the visitors have staked an early claim to make the last 32, while their league form has been mixed so far. The Spanish side have had setbacks of late, losing back to back games 1-0. They lost out at Atletico Madrid, while the weekend brought a defeat at home to Real Valladolid. This season has brought inconsistency to Betis, and their morale has to be low after their recent slump. That makes a visit to Milan a daunting challenge, even if the Rossoneri are a shadow of their former selves.

Betis will be concerned about a lack of goal threat on their travels, having failed to score in four of their five away games in all competitions. That should be a boost to a young but impressive Milan defence, and Gennaro Gattuso should be expecting a strong display from his side. With the Europa League becoming more and more important with each league slip, a third straight win in Europe would be huge for Milan.

The Rossoneri may have lost at San Siro at the weekend, but that clash came with the stands packed with Inter fans. In their own home games, Milan have won five and drawn one of their last six. They’ve scored at least twice in ever home game so far this season, including a 3-1 win over Olympiakos in their first European game at home this term. They won six of eight home games in this competition last season, and with Betis struggling, we’re backing another victory for the hosts.